46 AROYA initially homeported in Jeddah, offering three- and four-night itineraries to Al Aqaba in Jordan, Ain Al Sokhna and Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt, and Jabal Al-Sabaya Island, Cruise Saudi’s private island, which is widely known as Saba Beach. “AROYA Cruises has demonstrated strong commercial traction, welcoming more than 140,000 guests in its first year and establishing credible demand for a homegrown Arabian cruise product,” says Clasen. “With Jeddah as its homeport in the Red Sea and itineraries including domestic calls such as Yanbu, AROYA Cruises has introduced cruising as a viable leisure option for the Saudi and Gulf Corporation Council (GCC) markets, building familiarity, stimulating local demand and anchoring maritime tourism within the kingdom’s broader tourism landscape.” In summer 2025, AROYA repositioned to the Eastern Mediterranean to operate a series of six- and seven-night voyages from Galataport Istanbul to other destinations in Turkey, as well as ports in Greece and Egypt. More than 20,000 guests embarked on these sailings. “Our inaugural Mediterranean season was exceptional,” says Clasen. “The itineraries were popular because they offered a unique proposition: the chance to explore iconic European destinations through the lens of AROYA Cruises’ distinct Arabian hospitality, what is culturally referred to as Hafawa. Our itineraries across Turkey and Greece combined marquee ports with more intimate boutique destinations such as Kaş, allowing guests to experience the cultural richness of iconic cities alongside the charm of hidden coastal gems beyond traditional cruise routes.” Buoyed by this initial success, the cruise line has extended the Mediterranean seasons for both 2026 and 2027. “The Mediterranean remains a strategically important destination for us,” says Clasen. “Building on this early success allows us to further strengthen COVER STORY The Blossom Spa is just one of many luxury facilities onboard AROYA, while Irth is the first Saudi Arabian restaurant at sea and offers high-quality, locally sourced foods and beverages
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